Many Singaporeans who have been to Penang remember its delicious food. Its multi-ethnic character
is evident in its cuisine. Be it Nonya, Chinese, Malay, Indian, Western or fusion food, Penang’s streets are lined with stalls and coffeeshops that serve a sumptuous spread of culinary creations.

Food streets such as Gurney Drive, The Esplanade, Glugor and Macalister Road are must-visit places for foodies.

Here’s my pick of the best: Penang laksa

Widely regarded as the island’s most iconic hawker dish, Penang laksa combines rice noodles in a spicy fishbased soup, along with pineapple chunks and tamarind, topped off with mint leaves and finely ground
torch ginger.

Where to go: Ayer Itam coffeeshop, next to Kek Lok Si Temple.

Nasi kandar

A dish of Indian Muslim
origin, nasi kandar refers to the steamed rice (“nasi”) and side dishes sold by rice vendors who carried the wooden containers of meals by Tantalise your taste buds Mary Lim tucks into a sumptuous spread
of must-eats in Penang balancing (“kandar”) them on a pole on their shoulders.Some common side dishes include fried chicken, fried squid and lady’s finger. The rice is also served with a mixture of curry sauces.

Where to go: Kafe 1926, Hotel 1926, 227, Jalan Burma, George Town

Cendol

Sweet-toothed types will savour this dessert, distinguished by the mishmash of pandan-flavoured
noodles, brown sugar and red beans bathed in smooth coconut milk.

Where to go: Penang Road Chendul, Lebuh Leng Kwee (off Penang Road)

Char kuey teow

The Penang version sometimes comes with duck egg and crabmeat. Ask for extra prawns!

Where to go: Sisters Char Kueh Teow, Lam Heng Café, Macalister Road

Durian

Eat it by the roadside. Durian in Penang is picked by plantation workers the morning after the fruits drop from the trees. Prices vary, with the Royal variety going for RM20 (S$8.40) per kg.

Where to go: Anson Road Durian Stall

The writer’s trip was sponsored by
Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board.